Platense reaches Argentina Cup final after penalty shootout win

Platense advanced to the Argentina Cup final after drawing 1-1 with Atlético Tucumán at the Padre Ernesto Martearena stadium in Salta and winning 5-4 in the penalty shootout. Goalkeeper Juan Pablo Cozzani saved Gabriel Compagnucci's fifth penalty, while Guido Mainero converted the decisive spot-kick.

Atlético Tucumán supporters formed the majority in the stands because of the geographic proximity to Salta. Before kickoff, Platense coach Martín Palermo embraced Atlético Tucumán coach Julio César Falcioni, who had shared a squad with him at Boca.

“This group always shows ambition until the end.”

Atlético Tucumán had an early chance in the second minute when Luciano Vallejo scored from a rebound, but the goal was disallowed for offside. Platense responded in the eighth minute as Tomás Silva's volleyed effort went close after a free kick hit the wall.

Leonel Vega left the field in tears in the 34th minute due to a physical problem and was replaced by Julián Fernández. Two minutes later, Juan José Infante delivered a cross from the left that set up Platense's equalizer.

Palermo said his squad always shows ambition until the end and praised the penalty takers and Cozzani's performance. He added that the group is stronger and more united than in 2023 because of their battles since the start of the year.

Platense will play the winner of Boca versus Banfield in the final on December 2, seeking a second title after winning one last year.